Stunning partial solar eclipse takes a bite out of the sun

AS the sun dipped towards the horizon on Tuesday the moon drifted across its path, causing a stunning solar eclipse.

The effect made it seem like a bite was being taken out of the sun.

In what is known in astronomical circles as a "ring of fire" eclipse, the moon is almost at its farthest distance form the Earth and is too small to fully cover the sun, thus creating a burning ring effect rather than a total solar eclipse.

As Chronicle photographer Robyne Cuerel took pictures of the stunning sight at Gatakers Bay on Tuesday, she said the appearance of the sun was like a crescent moon.

The moon appeared to take a bite out of the sun as it set on Tuesday at Gatakers Bay.Robyne Cuerel